Founding Isley Brothers band member, Rudolph Isley, has died
By Rich McKay
(Reuters) – Rudolph Isley, singer, songwriter and founding member of the influential rhythm and blues band the Isley Brothers, whose hits included « Shout », « Fight the Power », and « That Lady », died on Wednesday at age 84 at his home in Chicago, the family said in a statement.
« Heaven has gained another angel….we know he’s in a better place. Forever in our hearts, » the family statement read.
The cause of death was not disclosed.
Rudolph Isley, originally of Cincinnati, began a singing in church with his brothers Ronald, O’Kelly and younger brother Vernon, who died as a teenager in a traffic accident. Later members included brothers Marvin and Ernie and brother-in-law Chris Jasper.
While he sang harmony and at times lead vocals for the group, Rudolph Isley also co-wrote songs including their 1959 breakthrough hit « Shout, » a gospel-style call-and-response song built around the words « You know you make me wanna shout! »
Among other hits by the band include « Twist and Shout », later covered by the Beatles, and « This Old Heart of Mine (Is Weak for You) », covered by singer Rod Stewart.
Rudolph Isley left the group in the late 1980s to become a Christian minister, but at times still sang with the group.
He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992.